good quality at reasonable rates, streets paved and well cared for,
sidewalks of cement, reasonable fire and police protection, a
progressive community spirit, and a reputation for our town that will
make us proud to name it as our place of abode.



THE HOME ACRE

All these things may be had in scores of American suburbs and smaller
cities. But when we have selected the one or more towns that may
please us, and get down to the house or lot, our range of choice will
be found rather narrow. In the neighborhoods we would select, it is
probable that few houses are to be rented. Most of them have been
built for occupancy by their owners, who, if forced to go elsewhere,
have preferred selling to renting. There is no prejudice against
renters, but the sentiment is against renting, and this sentiment is
well grounded in common sense. Still, some families find it advisable
to rent for a year or so, meanwhile studying the local conditions and
selecting a building site. This plan has much to commend it, though it
makes a second move necessary. Others, who do not feel assured that a
change in business will not compel an early removal, wisely prefer to
rent, if a suitable house can be found for what they can afford to pay.



COMPARATIVE COST IN RENTING

The proportion of income that may be set aside for rent depends on what
that payment covers. In a steam-heated city flat with complete janitor